Ruud Focused on Tennis and Family

Norwegian tennis star Casper Ruud has revealed that he may leave the Australian Open early if his wife, Maria, goes into labor with their first child. The 12th seed at Melbourne Park, Ruud emphasized that family comes first, saying he “probably won’t be here the next day” if the baby arrives during the tournament.

Maria Ruud is heavily pregnant with the couple’s first child, a daughter, and Ruud has been balancing his tennis commitments with keeping close contact with her. “I have to thank Maria for letting me go in the first place. I know she’s at home resting, getting ready,” Ruud said after his first-round victory.

First-Round Win in Melbourne

Ruud started his Australian Open campaign strongly, defeating Italy’s Mattia Bellucci 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 in the first round on Monday. He now faces Spain’s Jaume Munar in the second round on Wednesday.

During his win, Ruud reflected on how his priorities have shifted since expecting his first child. “Except for when I’m playing a match, the ringer is on all hours of the day just in case,” he said. “There’s more to life than just tennis, but I’m going to be here for as long as I can and as long as Maria lets me.”

Family Life and Support System

Ruud has frequently traveled with his family to tournaments, relying on his father Christian Ruud, a former professional player, who now serves as his coach. He described the anticipation of becoming a father and how it adds a new dimension to his career.

“I know for a fact that if everything goes well, the next time I leave my house I will have another person at home,” Ruud said. “She’ll be very little and small, but she’ll be there, and I hope to bring her and my wife Maria to the tournaments together and be a happy family traveling around. I’m not just doing this for myself any more. I have someone extra to play for.”

Ruud’s Career Highlights

Casper Ruud has been a consistent presence in men’s tennis, having finished as runner-up at the US Open and twice at the French Open. Known for his strong clay-court game, Ruud has steadily climbed the ATP rankings, and his mental focus in Melbourne will be crucial as he balances the demands of elite tennis with family life.

Looking Ahead at the Australian Open

Ruud’s second-round match against Jaume Munar will test his form as he progresses in the 2026 Australian Open. Fans and commentators are watching closely, both for his performance on the court and his preparations for fatherhood off it.